Category: Football coaching

Managing Parents’ Expectations in Youth Football

Apr 28th, 2025

Written by Scott Rogers

Youth football is more than just a game; it’s a formative experience that shapes children’s social skills, self-esteem, and love for physical activity. However, one of the greatest challenges coaches and clubs face is not just developing young athletes, but managing the expectations of their parents. While most parents have good intentions, unrealistic or misaligned expectations can create pressure, conflict, and burnout — for players, coaches, and families alike.

Why Parents’ Expectations Matter

Parents play a pivotal role in a young athlete’s journey. Their support, encouragement, and involvement can significantly enhance a child’s enjoyment and development in the sport. However, when expectations become too high, overly competitive, or disconnected from the child’s personal goals and needs, it can lead to:

• Anxiety and stress in players

• Decreased performance and enjoyment

• Strained parent-child relationships

• Frustration with coaches and clubs

Understanding and managing these expectations is essential to create a positive environment where young players can thrive.

Common Sources of Mismatched Expectations

• Overemphasis on Winning: Some parents prioritise results over development, losing sight of the bigger picture — growth, learning, and fun.

• Misjudging Talent Levels: Believing a child is destined for a professional career can lead to frustration when natural developmental stages are mistaken for failure.

• Comparisons with Other Players: Parents may unfairly compare their child to teammates, forgetting that each player develops at a different pace.

• Emotional Investment: Many parents view their child’s success as a reflection of their own efforts, leading to heightened emotions around performance.

Strategies for Coaches and Clubs

1. Establish Clear Communication

From the very first meeting, set clear expectations about team philosophy, goals, and the balance between development and competition. Provide regular updates on player progress and create open channels for questions and concerns.

2. Educate on Developmental Pathways

Host informational sessions that explain typical stages of athletic development, the rarity of professional careers, and the importance of long-term growth over short-term victories.

3. Encourage a Growth Mindset

Promote the idea that effort, resilience, and attitude are more important than innate talent or winning. Praise learning moments and improvements rather than just outcomes.

4. Provide Parental Involvement Guidelines

Set boundaries around sideline behavior, post-game discussions, and feedback. Encourage parents to focus on enjoyment and sportsmanship rather than coaching from the sidelines.

5. Build a Community of Support

Create opportunities for parents to be positively involved — volunteering, organising events, or simply supporting all players equally. A united community can lessen tension and reinforce shared values.

Tips for Parents

• Celebrate Effort, Not Just Results: Recognise hard work, team play, and improvement.

• Let Coaches Coach: Resist the urge to offer technical advice unless asked.

• Support Your Child’s Interests: Allow your child to own their experience and make decisions about their participation level.

• Keep the Big Picture in Mind: Remember that the lessons from youth football — teamwork, discipline, resilience — are more valuable than trophies.

Conclusion

Managing parents’ expectations in youth football isn’t about lowering standards — it’s about aligning them with the true purpose of youth sports: development, enjoyment, and life lessons. By fostering a supportive, informed, and balanced approach, coaches, clubs, and parents can work together to create an environment where young players not only improve their football skills but also build a lifelong love for the game.

Scott Rogers
Title: Enhancing Youth Football Development: The Benefits of Maturity-Based Grouping

Aug 6th, 2023

Introduction:

When it comes to developing young footballers, the traditional method of grouping players solely by their age may not always be the most effective approach. In recent years, the consideration of maturity levels as a basis for organizing youth football teams has gained recognition. This article explores the advantages of grouping young players based on maturity levels, offering real-life examples from around the world that highlight the success of this approach. By taking into account individual differences, we can optimize player development and foster a more inclusive and balanced playing environment.

Understanding the Limitations of Age Grouping:

While age may serve as a simple and convenient means of organizing youth teams, it overlooks the biological, skill, and emotional variations that naturally occur among individuals of the same age. Physical and cognitive differences resulting from varied rates of growth and maturation can significantly impact a player’s development. Additionally, less mature players may struggle to keep up with their more advanced counterparts, potentially leading to imbalanced teams and unequal competition.

The Advantages of Maturity-Based Grouping:

Recognising the importance of considering maturity levels in groupings can yield several benefits for young footballers:

Individualised Development: Grouping players based on maturity levels allows coaches and trainers to tailor their approach to address each player’s specific needs. This personalised attention optimizes their development potential and facilitates targeted support.

Balanced Competition: By creating teams of players with similar maturity levels, games based practices become more evenly matched, enhancing player engagement and enjoyment. Balanced competition fosters healthy growth and motivates players to continuously improve.

The development of Joe Geldhardt

In 2014, I had the pleasure of coaching Joe Geldhardt (Leeds United) at Wigan Athletics Youth Academy. Joe’s exceptional talent and dedication to the sport were evident right from the start. What made Joe’s case particularly interesting was the fact that despite being born in May, he displayed remarkable physical maturity that set him apart from his peers.

Recognising Joe’s Advanced Maturity:
As a coach, it was clear to me that Joe possessed physical attributes that were beyond his years. His strength, agility, and understanding of the game were well beyond what is typically expected from players of his age. Observing his abilities, I knew that Joe had the potential to excel and make a significant impact on the field.

Given Joe’s advanced physical maturity and exceptional skills, it was only fitting to provide him with the opportunity to challenge himself even further. The club made the decision for Joe to play up an age group, which proved to be a pivotal moment in his development. Playing alongside players who had similar physical attributes exposed him to a higher level of competition and forced him to continuously push his limits.

Global Examples and Supporting Data:

Several organisations and countries have already embraced the concept of maturity-based grouping, yielding promising results:

Premier League Academies (England): Premier League academies have implemented bio-banding, a system that groups players based on biological, physical, and cognitive traits rather than solely on age. This approach enhances coaching methods, resulting in improved player development and skill progression.

Football Association of Norway (NFF): The NFF introduced “Player Skills Trials,” which focus on a player’s individual competence potential. By considering both physical and cognitive maturity levels, this approach enables more targeted training and evaluation, fostering better overall development outcomes.

Union of European Football Associations (UEFA): UEFA’s guidelines for the Elite Club Youth Award highlight the importance of maturity-based grouping, urging clubs to consider individual development levels when forming teams. This approach has led to increased player satisfaction, reduced dropout rates, and improved long-term development outcomes.

Supporting Statistics:

Research conducted by the University of Nottingham and the Premier League revealed that bio-banding resulted in closer match outcomes, allowing players to maintain high levels of technical performance irrespective of their chronological age.

A study published in the Journal of Sports Sciences demonstrated that maturity-based grouping reduced injury risks by ensuring that physically less advanced players were not exposed to mismatched physical challenges.

Conclusion:

Rethinking the traditional age-based approach to youth football by incorporating maturity levels in groupings offers numerous benefits. By tailoring coaching and training methods to meet the specific needs of young players, we can optimize their development potential and create a more inclusive and balanced playing environment. Real-life examples from around the globe and supporting data have shown the positive impact of maturity-based grouping, highlighting its potential to revolutionize youth football development practices worldwide. By embracing this approach, we can empower young footballers to thrive and reach their full potential.

Scott Rogers
Title: The Art of Counter Pressing in Football: Origin, Benefits, Tactical Implementation and Influential Coaches

Jul 30th, 2023
Introduction:
Counter pressing, also known as “gegenpressing” in German, is a tactical approach in football that focuses on immediately regaining possession of the ball after losing it by pressing the opponent intensely. Coined by legendary German coach Ralf Rangnick, counter pressing has become a significant aspect of modern football tactics. This article will delve into the origins of counter pressing, discuss its benefits and drawbacks, and highlight notable teams and coaches who have successfully implemented this strategy.

Origins of Counter Pressing:
The concept of counter pressing is deeply rooted in the philosophy of “Total Football” pioneered by Dutch coach Rinus Michels in the 1970s. Total Football emphasized aggressive pressing to quickly regain possession and launch quick counterattacks. However, it was Ralf Rangnick and later Jürgen Klopp, both German coaches, who popularized and refined counter pressing techniques.

Benefits of Counter Pressing:
1. Regaining Possession: The primary objective of counter pressing is to regain possession as quickly as possible, denying the opponent time to organize counterattacks. This strategy allows teams to turn defense into attack and create scoring opportunities in advanced areas.
2. Increased Pressure: By pressing and closing down opponents near their own goal, counter pressing often forces hurried clearances or turnovers, creating turnovers in dangerous positions. This puts the defending team in a strong position to launch immediate attacks and apply sustained pressure on the opposition.
3. Disrupting Opposition Build-up: Counter pressing disrupts the opponent’s build-up play, hindering their ability to control the game and launch planned attacks. It can be used as a proactive defensive strategy to disrupt the opponent’s rhythm and force errors.
Drawbacks of Counter Pressing:
1. Physical and Mental Demands: Implementing an effective counter pressing system requires high levels of fitness, coordination, and mental awareness from the players. It demands intense physical effort and concentration throughout the game, which may lead to fatigue or lapses in concentration if not executed properly.
2. Vulnerability to Quick Attacks: Counter pressing often leaves spaces behind the pressing player, providing opportunities for opponents with quick counterattacks. Teams that successfully evade pressure can exploit the spaces left vacant and launch fast-paced counter-attacks themselves, exposing the pressing team’s defensive vulnerabilities.
Tactical Implementation of Counter Pressing:
1. Intense Pressure on the Ball Carrier: The first step in implementing the counter press is to instruct players to apply intense pressure on the opponent in possession of the ball. This pressure should be swift, coordinated, and executed by multiple players, suffocating the ball carrier and limiting their time and options. The aim is to force a turnover or a rushed pass that can be intercepted.
2. Cutting Off Passing Options: As the counter press is executed, players must position themselves strategically to cut off passing lanes and options for the opposition. By blocking passing options, the pressing team increases the chances of forcing turnovers and maintaining pressure on the opponent.
3. Zonal Blocking and Trapping: Creating specific zones where pressing is prioritized can be an effective way to channel the opponent into areas where they are more likely to make mistakes or lose possession. By positioning players intelligently in these zones, the team can trap and overwhelm the opponent, forcing turnovers and quickly transitioning into attacking positions.
4. Immediate Transition to Attack: Once possession is regained through the counter press, players must quickly transition to attacking mode. This includes making forward runs, exploiting spaces left unoccupied by the opponent, and launching quick and purposeful passing combinations to bypass the disrupted opposition defense.
5. Team Coordination and Communication: Successful counter pressing relies heavily on team coordination and communication. Players should communicate with each other, constantly adjusting their press based on the positioning of the opposition and their teammates. This allows for effective pressing traps and ensures that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities during the counter press.
6. Fitness and Training: Implementing the counter press requires a high level of fitness from the players. Coaches should incorporate fitness drills and specific training exercises that develop the physical endurance and mental acuity necessary to press intensely throughout the game. Regular training sessions focused on pressing cues and patterns help players develop the instinctive reactions required for successful implementation.
Notable Teams and Coaches:

Borussia Dortmund (Ralf Rangnick and Jürgen Klopp): Under the guidance of Ralf Rangnick and later Jürgen Klopp, Borussia Dortmund became renowned for their intense counter pressing style. They implemented a high-energy pressing system that led them to success, including reaching the UEFA Champions League Final in 2013.

Liverpool FC (Jürgen Klopp): Jürgen Klopp’s Liverpool has mastered the art of counter pressing, which has turned them into one of the most formidable teams in world football. Klopp’s tactical approach, blending pressing with lightning-quick transitions, has propelled Liverpool to win domestic and international titles, most notably securing the UEFA Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020.

Manchester City (Pep Guardiola): Pep Guardiola is known for his tactical innovation, and counter pressing has been a significant aspect of his successful teams, including Manchester City. Guardiola’s teams apply intense pressure on the opponent immediately after losing possession, aiming to regain it quickly and prevent counterattacks. By implementing counter pressing, Guardiola’s teams have been able to dominate possession and control games, leading to numerous domestic league titles and cup successes.
Conclusion:
Counter pressing has evolved into an essential component of modern football tactics, offering numerous benefits including increased pressure, immediate possession, and disruption of opposition play. However, this approach requires physical fitness, mental awareness, and organization to avoid vulnerabilities to fast counterattacks. Coaches like Ralf Rangnick, Jürgen Klopp, and Pep Guardiola have exemplified successful implementation of counter pressing, propelling their teams to success at both domestic and international levels. As the game continues to evolve, counter pressing remains a potent tool in the arsenal of football strategies.

Implementing the counter press successfully demands meticulous planning and training. Coaches and players must work together to develop an understanding of the tactical nuances, communication, and coordination required for the pressing system. By executing relentless pressure, cutting off passing lanes, and transitioning quickly to attack, teams can harness the power of the counter press to disrupt opponents, control the game, and create scoring opportunities.

Scott Rogers
Title: Evolution of Centre Backs in Football: The Rise of Ball-playing Defenders

Jul 24th, 2023

Introduction:

Football, like any other sport, has witnessed an undeniable evolution in terms of gameplay, tactics, and player roles. Among these changes, the role of the centre back has experienced a notable transformation. Once defined by their defensive duties, modern centre backs are now expected to possess exceptional ball control and distribution skills. In this article, we explore the evolution of centre backs in football, highlighting how their responsibilities have remained similar while simultaneously emphasizing the growing significance of their abilities on the ball.

Changing Responsibilities:

Throughout football history, the core responsibilities of centre backs have revolved around providing stability and security in defense. This has traditionally involved tracking opponents, intercepting passes, making crucial tackles, and clearing the ball away from danger. These duties remain crucial for effective defending, and the need for a solid defensive foundation has not diminished with time.

The Emphasis on Playing with the Ball:

However, the rise of possession-based football and the implementation of tactical approaches such as the “Build from the Back” philosophy has significantly impacted the role of centre backs. Nowadays, being technically proficient and comfortable on the ball is a decisive factor in a defender’s success.

Ability on the Ball:

The emphasis on ball-playing centre backs stems from the belief that retaining possession is essential to control the game and launch effective attacks. Modern centre backs are expected to act as key instigators of attacking moves, initiating plays by distributing the ball with accuracy and precision. Their ability to switch the play, deliver long passes into offensive zones, and venture forward with purpose has become a game-changer.

Tactical Advancements:

Several tactical innovations have contributed to the evolution of centre backs’ playing style. For instance, in a three-man defensive system, one central defender often acts as a ‘libero’ or ‘sweeper,’ pushing further up the field and distributing the ball from deep positions. Additionally, the concept of ‘playing out from the back’ demands centre backs to receive the ball under pressure, resist opponents’ pressing, and initiate attacks with intelligent passing.

Adaptation and Technical Development:

To meet the demands of modern football, centre backs have adapted their game accordingly. Training regimes have begun to focus more on improving their technical skills, including passing, dribbling, and decision-making abilities. Centre backs are encouraged to participate in build-up play and contribute to offensive phases while maintaining a strong defensive presence.

Examples of the Evolution:

Prominent examples of ball-playing centre backs include the likes of Gerard Piqué, Sergio Ramos, and Virgil van Dijk. These players showcase exceptional composure and confidence on the ball, delivering accurate long passes, and seamlessly transitioning between defensive and attacking duties.

Another notable example of a ball-playing centre back who exemplifies the evolution of the position is John Stones. The English defender, who rose to prominence during his time with Everton and currently plays for Manchester City, personifies the modern archetype of a centre back with excellent technical abilities.

Stones’ capability to play out from the back has been integral to Manchester City’s possession-based style of play under manager Pep Guardiola. His ball-playing skills, combined with his defensive acumen, have played a crucial role in City’s success in recent years. Stones’ adaptability and technical development have allowed him to seamlessly transition from a traditional centre back to one who actively participates in build-up play, making him a valuable asset in both defensive and offensive aspects of the game.

Stones has earned praise for his composure on the ball and his ability to initiate attacks from deep positions. His vision and passing range are particularly noteworthy, enabling him to effortlessly distribute the ball accurately and effectively from the backline. Whether it is a short, crisp pass to a teammate or a long, pinpoint delivery to unlock opposition defenses, Stones consistently exhibits his proficiency in ball distribution.

Notably, Stones’ contributions extend beyond his ability to pass and control the ball. His improved decision-making and positional awareness have made him a more well-rounded defender, capable of intercepting passes, making crucial tackles, and organizing the defense. This exemplifies the balance required for a modern centre back who must excel in both defensive duties and ball-playing responsibilities.

John Stones serves as a prime example of how centre backs have evolved in football, with an increased emphasis on their technical abilities on the ball. As the game continues to progress, it is players like Stones who embody the new breed of centre backs that possess the skills necessary to contribute not only in defense but also in initiating attacks, ultimately shaping the modern game.

Conclusion:

While the responsibilities of centre backs in football have remained relatively constant, a significant shift has occurred in terms of the emphasis on their ability on the ball. The increasing importance of ball-playing centre backs reflects the changing dynamics of the game, with possession and domination becoming essential aspects of modern football. As the sport continues to progress, the role of the centre back will likely evolve further, ensuring that defenders are not only strong defensively but also contribute effectively to the attacking phases of the game.

Scott Rogers
Enhancing Youth Football Development: Embracing Game Realism over Closed Skill Drills

Jul 17th, 2023

Introduction

In the realm of youth football development, coaching methodologies are constantly evolving to optimize player performance. As we strive to nurture the talents of young footballers, there is a growing recognition that shifting away from closed skill drills and towards game replication practices can have a profoundly positive impact. Although skill repetition undeniably holds value, exposing young footballers to game-realistic practices offers a more comprehensive and dynamic learning experience, ultimately preparing them to thrive in competitive matches.

The Benefits of Skill Repetition

There are significant benefits associated with skill repetition in the development of young footballers. Closed skill drills enable players to isolate and perfect specific techniques, laying a strong foundation for their overall skill set. By focusing on individual skills such as dribbling, passing, and shooting, young players can develop technical proficiency.

Moreover, skill repetition cultivates attributes like focus, discipline, and perseverance, instilling a growth mindset in young athletes. Regular practice and improvement boost their confidence, helping them overcome challenges and expand their skill repertoire. Additionally, closed skill drills provide coaches with valuable insights into each player’s strengths and weaknesses, enabling targeted training interventions.

The Limitations of Closed Skill Drills

While skill repetition is crucial, solely relying on closed skill drills may hinder young footballers’ ability to seamlessly transfer skills to real-game situations. The inherent limitation lies in the drills’ predictable and repetitive nature, often divorced from the complexities of actual play.

Football is a dynamic sport that demands adaptability, decision-making, and the ability to handle unpredictable scenarios. Closed skill drills, by their nature, rarely expose players to the nuanced challenges they will face on the field. As a result, young footballers may struggle to apply their honed skills effectively in real-game scenarios, leading to a performance gap between practice and competitive matches.

The Power of Game Replication

To bridge the gap between skill development and game performance, game replication drills are increasingly being integrated into youth football training programs. By simulating real-game scenarios, coaches push players to confront the unpredictability, decision-making, and pressure they will encounter during matches. Game replication fosters better problem-solving skills, enhances game intelligence, and improves decision-making abilities.

Furthermore, these drills encourage teamwork, communication, and an understanding of collective play. By experiencing the complexities of the game in a controlled environment, young footballers develop a holistic approach to football, characterized by improved spatial awareness, anticipation, and effective decision making in the context of team dynamics.

Practical Implementation

To incorporate game replication into youth football training, coaches should design drills that closely mimic real-game situations. Small-sided games, situational exercises, and modified game scenarios are effective tools to challenge players to apply their skills in practical contexts.

By introducing constraints such as time limits, limited touches, or specific objectives, coaches can enhance the realism of the drills. It is essential to encourage open-ended problem-solving and allow young footballers to experiment and make informed decisions based on their own observations and understanding of the game.

Conclusion

While skill repetition remains integral to the development of young footballers, the inclusion of game replication practices is critical to unlocking their full potential. Shifting away from closed skill drills and embracing game realism empowers young footballers to bridge the gap between practice and competitive matches effectively. By preparing players to navigate the complexities and uncertainties of real-game situations, coaches lay the foundation for the next generation of skilled, intelligent, and resilient footballers, primed to succeed in the modern game.

Scott Rogers
Processes and Culture over results

May 9th, 2023

A team’s success is often judged based on its results. However, concentrating only on results can hinder a team’s long-term success. Instead, a team should focus on its processes and team culture to achieve sustainable success. In this article, we will explore why a focus on processes and team culture is crucial for long-term success in football.

Processes refer to the actions, strategies, and techniques that a team implements to achieve its goals. When a team concentrates on processes, it strives to create a system that facilitates success, rather than relying on individual players’ talents. A team that focuses on processes can sustain its success even when players come and go. Processes are particularly important in football, where the outcome of a game can depend on small details.

For example, a team that prioritises ball possession and quick transitions can create numerous scoring opportunities, even with less talented players. Additionally, a team that has a process-oriented approach to defensive organisation and counter-attacking can inhibit stronger teams.

In football, the importance of processes can be seen in the example of the Spanish national team. The Spanish team is known for its emphasis on ball possession and the Tiki-Taka playing style, which prioritizes quick passing and movement. The team has a defined process that players are expected to follow, which allows for seamless transitions and precision in attacking and defending. As a result, the Spanish team has been one of the most successful teams in the world in recent years.

However, concentrating only on processes is not enough to achieve long-term success. A strong team culture is also necessary to sustain success. Team culture refers to the shared values, beliefs, and attitudes that a group of individuals brings to a team environment. A positive team culture fosters a sense of belonging, encourages open communication, and promotes a collective desire to achieve success. A strong team culture is the foundation upon which successful teams are built and is essential for long-term success.

One of the benefits of a strong team culture is that it can help players buy into the team’s goals and strategies. When a team has a clearly defined culture, players are more likely to embrace the team’s philosophy and approach. This shared understanding helps players work together more effectively, and can improve the overall quality of play. For example, a team with a strong culture of teamwork and selflessness is more likely to create scoring opportunities through passing and movement than a team that relies solely on individual brilliance.

Another benefit of a strong team culture is that it can create a positive and supportive team environment. When a team has a culture of mutual respect and trust, players are more likely to support one another, both on and off the field. This can lead to a more cohesive and unified team, where everyone is working towards a common goal. A positive team environment can also help players develop resilience and mental toughness, which are essential qualities for success in football.

In conclusion, a focus on processes and team culture is necessary for long-term success in football. Processes facilitate success, while a strong team culture fosters a sense of belonging, encourages open communication, and promotes a collective desire to achieve success. By focusing on building a positive team culture and implementing effective processes, teams can improve the quality of play, create a supportive team environment, and achieve sustainable success. Ultimately, this approach can be the difference between short-term success and sustained success in football.

Scott Rogers